From The Beginning

I have wanted the lap band for several years now but was unable to afford the cost. I was watching TV and seen a commercial stating go to this web site and on the web site it would give you the codes to ask your insurance about. I did not even realize my insurance would cover it, I called my insurance and they were so helpful and let me know what I needed.

I went to a Rockwood Clinic seminar in April, which I found 2 hours out of town (nothing local due to a small town). Then I went home and thought about it and asked my family for their input.

I then called my primary Dr and made an appointment and asked for a referral to Rockwood Clinic.

I then called and made an appointment for May 21^st and called my insurance back and asked more questions about co-pay and was the hospital “in network”.

I went to my Dr.’s appointment in May and spoke with the Dr about different surgeries after hearing more from him, I decided to change the surgery I wanted I decided on the Sleeve.

I made another call to my insurance and the Sleeve was also covered!!!

I made sure I called my insurance regularly and I was seeing to see if they needed any info. I completed all test that were required. My surgery is scheduled August 15^th.

I had small hurdles; I did have to keep on top of insurance making sure things were completed correctly. I had to call Dr’s office several times to see what they were doing to make sure the ball was not dropped.

These were the test that needed completed before they would even schedule my Surgery.

Medical Psychological Eva. Was completed June 1^st it took the person 1 week to submit the test results to the Dr. I did have to pay this upfront cost of $270.00. But I was able to submit to insurance and have myself reimbursed but stating it was required to have for surgery since surgery is covered so are the test by my insurance company. I had to submit 2 times because of incorrect codes.

Code I used was; V72.83 (Other specified pre-operative examination - pre-operative exam unspecified).

EKG Completed 6/5/2012

Gallbladder Ultrasound Completed 6/6/2012

Chest X-Ray Completed 6/6/2012

Lab blood work Completed 6/6/2012

I completed all tests that were required.

I start my liquid diet Aug 1^st

My pre Op appointment is Aug 3^rd

My surgery is scheduled August 15^th.

I feel very lucky that the time frame is under 90 days from first appointment till the time of my surgery. Like I said I stayed in close contact with a person at Rockwood clinic and my insurance company making sure everything was turned in correctly.